England draws in experienced referee

NEWS: Referee Christophe Ridley will take up a formal role with the England team, providing specialist support around officiating.

Ridley, a professional referee since 2016, will advise on the set-up of law changes, interpretations, discipline, and general referee engagement.

Ridley has officiated across the world, including in the Gallagher Premiership since 2016, most notably taking charge of the 2024 Premiership Final between Bath and Northampton Saints.

He has also refereed in the United Rugby Championship, European competitions, the Six Nations Championship, and at the 2023 World Cup.

Commenting on the appointment, Conor O’Shea, Executive Director of Performance Rugby at the RFU, said: “This appointment reflects the game working together – recognising and valuing the importance of refereeing and how it can positively influence performance.

“Christophe’s experience and insight will be hugely valuable for the players and coaches alike.”